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Inventory updated: Wed, Jul 18, 2018 05:33 PM cst
Large Format French Wines
Flickinger has a fantastic selection of large format bottles from the greatest wines regions of France. Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne and the Rhône are well represented, with many of the wine's greatest producers included on this list - Château Lafite-Rothschild, Comte Liger-Belair, Krug and Domaine du Pegau are just the of the spectacular wines included here. This is the perfect time to add some showcase bottles to your cellar - take advantage of this list and grab some of these big bottles while they last.
The following are the wines remaining from the offer sent on Thursday, December 21, 2017. Please enter your desired quantities and click the 'Add' button.
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | Bordeaux Red |
| Ch. Cheval-Blanc |
2010 |
St. Emilion (1.5 L)  ex-Negociant |
$2,750 |
5 |
|
| |
WA 100 (2/2013): The 2010 is one of the most impressive two-year-old Cheval Blancs I have tasted in 34 years in this profession. The final blend of 54% Cabernet Franc and 46% Merlot has the tell-tale berry/floral nose with subtle hints of menthol, blueberry, raspberry and flowers in addition to some forest floor and a delicate touch of lead pencil shavings. The wine exhibits more structure and density than it did from barrel, and it was already remarkable then. The foresty/floral notes seem to linger and linger in this surprisingly full-bodied, powerful Cheval Blanc, yet it possesses a very healthy pH that should ensure enormous longevity. Dense purple in color, and a bigger, richer wine than usual, this is one Cheval Blanc that will probably need a decade of cellaring. I like the description from the estate’s administrator, Pierre Lurton, who said it tasted like “liquid cashmere,” a perfect expression, despite the wine’s structure and intensity. This is another 50-year wine from this amazingly structured, rich vintage.
JS 100 (11/2013): The aromas here are crazy with flowers, mushroom, forest floor, and fruit. It seems like I am walking through a row of the vines in Cheval Blanc when I have my nose in the glass. It's full-bodied, with fabulous layers of ultra-fine tannins and milk chocolate, raspberries, and a phenomenal finish. Truly one of the greatest Chevals ever. Better than 2009. Try in 2020.
WS 98 (3/2013): This is stone-cold shut down right now, but why worry? You'll want to wait at least a decade before breaching a bottle as massively endowed as this, with loads of loamy bass notes thumping along underneath a riveting track of licorice snap, pastis-steeped black currant fruit, maduro tobacco and espresso. And then there's an echo of petrichor at the very end that hints at the aromatic fireworks to come with cellaring. Should compete for wine of the vintage. Best from 2020 through 2040.
NM 98 (1/2014): The stellar Cheval Blanc 2010 has a very precise bouquet, not powerful but exuding a brooding intensity. It is very well defined with hints of honey and dried violet petals in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with a wondrous spicy entry, perfectly judged acidity, real weight and heft on the back palate that fans out as if there is no tomorrow. This is a huge wine, totally compelling, a behemoth destined to mature over years rather than decades. Tasted January 2014.
VM 95+ (7/2013): Good bright, deep red. Captivating scents of cassis, violet, minerals, bitter chocolate and wild herbs. Extremely fine-grained but also very dense and chewy for young Cheval Blanc, showing great cabernet franc lift and perfume and a downright velvety texture. This deep, multilayered wine was a bit dominated by its brooding tannins and big structure when first poured, but I found my score going steadily higher as the wine benefited from air. My rating may look too conservative a decade from now--or three or four decades hence. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2012 |
St. Emilion ETA Fall 2018 (1.5 L) ex-Negociant |
$1,100 |
6 |
|
| |
JS 98 (3/2011): This has a fabulous nose of black fruit, dark chocolate, nuts, and spices. It’s pretty much perfect. Full bodied, with beautiful fine tannins reminiscent of cashmere. A long, long finish rounds out this beautiful wine. Please don’t touch this until 2020. Find the wine NM 95-97 (5/2013): The Grand Vin is a blend of 54% Merlot and 46% Cabernet Franc, 26th September until the 13th October that comes from 35 different parcels. The picking is done in the vineyard for the first sorting by the pickers and then sorted by hand as they are sure delicate than using optical sorting machine. It has a dense, broody nose that has the looming presence of the Quinault L’Enclos. It veers towards a red fruit profile, with “rocky” aromas, perhaps a touch of marmalade and quince. The palate is medium-bodied but displays very good concentration for the vintages. It feels very harmonious – silky but with a citric acid edge that lends the finish the tension it needs to maintain the freshness. This will probably become a masculine Cheval Blanc that will need a decade in bottle.
WS 95 (3/2015): This wine is gorgeous in all facets, offering a simultaneously loamy and creamy mouthfeel, seamless layers of red and black currant, cherry, raspberry and blackberry fruit, and a long, tobacco-fueled finish that features alluring hints of black tea and incense. The fruit and terroir shine in this broad, deep and defined style. Best from 2018 through 2030. 7,665 cases made.
WA 94 (4/2015): A beautiful wine that always seems to drink well, the 2012 Cheval Blanc has a sweet, fragrant nose of black and red currants, floral nuances and spice. Supple, round and juicy, this wine can be drunk now or cellared for another 15 or more years. |
|
|
2012 |
St. Emilion ETA Fall 2018 (1.5 L) ex-Negociant |
$1,199 |
6 |
|
| |
JS 98 (3/2011): This has a fabulous nose of black fruit, dark chocolate, nuts, and spices. It’s pretty much perfect. Full bodied, with beautiful fine tannins reminiscent of cashmere. A long, long finish rounds out this beautiful wine. Please don’t touch this until 2020. Find the wine NM 95-97 (5/2013): The Grand Vin is a blend of 54% Merlot and 46% Cabernet Franc, 26th September until the 13th October that comes from 35 different parcels. The picking is done in the vineyard for the first sorting by the pickers and then sorted by hand as they are sure delicate than using optical sorting machine. It has a dense, broody nose that has the looming presence of the Quinault L’Enclos. It veers towards a red fruit profile, with “rocky” aromas, perhaps a touch of marmalade and quince. The palate is medium-bodied but displays very good concentration for the vintages. It feels very harmonious – silky but with a citric acid edge that lends the finish the tension it needs to maintain the freshness. This will probably become a masculine Cheval Blanc that will need a decade in bottle.
WS 95 (3/2015): This wine is gorgeous in all facets, offering a simultaneously loamy and creamy mouthfeel, seamless layers of red and black currant, cherry, raspberry and blackberry fruit, and a long, tobacco-fueled finish that features alluring hints of black tea and incense. The fruit and terroir shine in this broad, deep and defined style. Best from 2018 through 2030. 7,665 cases made.
WA 94 (4/2015): A beautiful wine that always seems to drink well, the 2012 Cheval Blanc has a sweet, fragrant nose of black and red currants, floral nuances and spice. Supple, round and juicy, this wine can be drunk now or cellared for another 15 or more years. |
|
| Ch. Haut Brisson |
2009 |
St. Emilion La Reserve (1.5 L) ex-Negociant |
$139.99 |
17 |
|
| |
WA 95 (12/2011): The limited production 2009 Haut-Brisson Reserve ratchets up everything, from the color (inky purple) to the aromatics, flavor profile, and long, full-bodied finish. This is a brilliant St.-Emilion that tastes like it came from one of the great terroirs on the St. Emilion plateau. It is also structured and unevolved, and will benefit from 5-7 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2030.
JS 93 (4/2012): A modern and focused red with lots of plum, flowers and hints of leaves on the nose. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and bright acidity, it's fresh and balanced. Mostly Merlot with hints of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Try in 2016. |
|
| Ch. Lafite Rothschild |
1977 |
Pauillac (6x1.5L) |
$6,600 |
2 |
|
| |
WS 87 (11/1991): Full of lively cranberry, raspberry and herb flavors, with smoky accents and very firm acidity. Very good wine from an unheralded vintage. Drink now through 2000.--Lafite Rothschild vertical.
MB [*] (9/1989): Could be a dashed sight worse. An effort at fragrance and flavour but dry, lean and tart. Not worth pursuing even out of curiosity. |
|
| | Burgundy Red |
| Chateau de la Tour |
2012 |
Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$269.99 |
3 |
|
| |
BH 93 (1/2015): A background application of toasty oak frames an airy, pure and markedly ripe nose of beautifully well-layered dark berry fruit and plum where additional breadth is present in the form of dried flowers, spice and earth accents. The seductively textured, intense and muscular big-bodied flavors possess ripe tannins and plenty of dry extract, all wrapped in a balanced, lingering and energetic finish that is a bit less youthfully austere than usual. Drink 2027+.
VM 90-93 (1/2014): Deep, bright red. Inviting aromas of red and black cherry, licorice, minerals, flowers and sexy herbs. Very ripe and lush, but also sappy, fine-grained and elegant, showing terrific concentration and saline minerality in the middle palate. Finishes very long, with thoroughly ripe tannins, an exotic suggestion of chocolate and plenty of mineral energy.
WA 89-91 (6/2014): The 2012 Clos de Vougeot Cuvee Classique Grand Cru has a fragrant, seductive bouquet that dares suggest more complexity than the Vieilles Vignes. It is pure with lovely ripe raspberry, red plum and bergamot notes that are more expressive, at least at the moment. The palate is medium-bodied and feels silky and supple in the mouth. The red fruit are laced with white pepper and it offers a gradual crescendo toward a focused finish. Excellent. Drink 2017-2030. |
|
| Dom. Comte de Vogue |
1990 |
Bonnes Mares Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$1,500 |
2 |
|
| |
WS 99 (12/1992): A classy, monumental wine, with an impressive deep color and spellbinding complexity. The concentration takes your breath away as the plum, blackberry, raspberry and vanilla flavors coat your palate. Try in 1998. 500 cases made.
WA 90 (10/1992): While the Bonnes Mares is closed, the dark ruby/purple color and the wine's terrific potential are evident. Full-bodied, with a blossoming, black-cherry nose complemented by a judicious use of toasty new oak, this wine exhibits wonderful richness, excellent definition and structure, and a long, dense, concentrated finish. Anticipated maturity: 1997-2010.
BH 88 (11/2007): Complex nose of very ripe aromas and earth and this is already showing strong secondary elements. The flavors are big and rich, indeed even rustic with lots of structure. This does not appear to have the mid-palate depth for the fruit to outlast the structure and while its not necessary to drink up, I have my doubts as to whether it will ever harmonize and it's quite likely it will begin to dry out soon. Still it's quite tasty but the '90 Bonnes Mares clearly needs food to help deal with the tannins. Drink now. |
|
|
1990 |
Bonnes Mares Grand Cru (1.5 L) Very Lightly Wrinkled and Nicked Label |
$1,500 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 99 (12/1992): A classy, monumental wine, with an impressive deep color and spellbinding complexity. The concentration takes your breath away as the plum, blackberry, raspberry and vanilla flavors coat your palate. Try in 1998. 500 cases made.
WA 90 (10/1992): While the Bonnes Mares is closed, the dark ruby/purple color and the wine's terrific potential are evident. Full-bodied, with a blossoming, black-cherry nose complemented by a judicious use of toasty new oak, this wine exhibits wonderful richness, excellent definition and structure, and a long, dense, concentrated finish. Anticipated maturity: 1997-2010.
BH 88 (11/2007): Complex nose of very ripe aromas and earth and this is already showing strong secondary elements. The flavors are big and rich, indeed even rustic with lots of structure. This does not appear to have the mid-palate depth for the fruit to outlast the structure and while its not necessary to drink up, I have my doubts as to whether it will ever harmonize and it's quite likely it will begin to dry out soon. Still it's quite tasty but the '90 Bonnes Mares clearly needs food to help deal with the tannins. Drink now. |
|
| Dom. de Montille |
2011 |
Volnay 1er Cru Taillepieds (1.5 L) |
$195 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 91-94 (4/2013): (100% stems). There is enough reduction present to mask the nuances of the nose though the floral character does sneak past the funk. There is a wonderfully silky texture to the intense mineral and soil-inflected medium-bodied flavors that display really lovely delineation on the moderately austere and very firmly structured finish that delivers outstanding depth and length. This should improve for years to come and this is really most impressive. Drink 2021+. Sweet Spot Outstanding!
VM 90+ (4/2014): (100% vendange entier): Good fresh red. Dark cherry and underbrush flavors are accented by peppery spices from the vinification with stems. Supple on entry, then concentrated, dry and uncompromising, with the stem component currently suppressing the wine's underlying fruit and minerality. Firmly built and energetic, but a bit dry following the Champans. Showing more energy than it did from barrel a year ago but the dusty tannins will require patience. |
|
| Dom. Francois Lamarche |
2008 |
Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$279.99 |
16 |
|
| |
| BH 89-92 (1/2010): (from 3 different parcels, one at the bottom and two at the top but on opposite sides) A beautiful nose combines notes of ripe and pure red berry fruit aromas that are liberally laced with warm earth and oak spice hints that can also be found on the unusually refined broad-shouldered flavors that are rich, delicious and detailed while possessing good mid-palate sap and the structural elements appear to be sufficiently ripe to avoid dryness though there is a touch of tanginess at present that is probably attributable to gas. Drink 2015+. |
|
| Dom. Henri Boillot |
2013 |
Volnay 1er Cru Les Chevrets (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$179.99 |
9 |
|
| |
| VM 91-94 (1/2015): Deep, bright red. Subtly complex nose melds redcurrant, black cherry, minerals, violet and earth. Wonderfully sweet and intense, showing a distinctly crunchy fruit character and lovely inner-mouth lift. From old vines and tiny grapes, and it shows. Finishes juicy, pure and very long, with firm but very suave tannins. The crop level here was just 14 hectoliters per hectare, according to Boillot--and 7 in 2014! BH 91 (4/2015): (from 25+ year old vines) An airy, fresh and distinctly cool nose displays an elegant mélange of dark cherry, essence of raspberry and plum along with hints of spice, floral and tea. The mouth feel of the silky and refined middle weight flavors is notably finer and I very much like the vibrancy that continues onto the balanced and lingering finish. The overall impression of refinement is enhanced by the notably fine grain of the tannins and this is really lovely, indeed it's very Volnay. Drink 2020+. Outstanding! WA 88-90 (12/2014): The 2013 Volnay 1er Cru les Chevrets errs more toward red fruit than black fruit, unlike Henri Boillot’s other premier cru. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy red berry fruit, touches of mocha and leather emerging toward the finish where the new oak is conspicuous at the moment. Give this a couple of years in bottle. It just feels a little conservative compared to others at present. |
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|
2013 |
Volnay 1er Cru Les Fremiets (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$179.99 |
11 |
|
| |
VM 90-92 (1/2015): Bright, dark red. Reticent, rather wild aromas of dark cherry and underbrush. Energetic but backward; much tighter today than the village wine and more dominated by its structure. The wild quality carries through on the palate. Best today on the back end, where fine-grained tannins spread out to saturate the palate.
WA 88-90 (12/2014): The 2013 Volnay 1er Cru Fremiets comes from a single parcel of vines. The nose is well defined, dominated by the new oak at the moment, but there is sufficient fruit underneath. The palate is medium-bodied with chewy tannins, quite dense at the moment with a touch of bell pepper on the masculine finish. Fine - if just a bit predictable.
BH 88 (4/2015): Here too there are discreet floral nuances to the pretty red and dark currant scents that are liberally laced with earth and sandalwood nuances. There is a bit more volume to the medium-bodied flavors that retain a lovely sense of detail on the energetic, dusty and mildly austere finish though in this case there is just a hint of dryness that detracts slightly from the overall sense of balance and harmony. Drink 2020+. |
|
| Dom. Ponsot |
2008 |
Clos de Vougeot Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$459 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 93-94 (6/2010): “This is one of the two barrels we still have left that was crafted from an oak tree grown in the village of Morey-St.-Denis in 1954,” says Ponsot as I taste his 2008 Clos Vougeot Cuvee Vieilles Vignes from it. Neither it nor the (at least slightly!) younger barrels here interfere with this wine’s strong flow of juicy plum and blackberry along with soy-like, saline savor. Hints of game, along with roasted red meat richness typical for its appellation well up as this opens to the air. Fine-grained tannins offer a reassuring sense of support structure and this finishes with impressive persistence. I expect it to be worth following for 15-20 years.
BH 91-94 (1/2010): A ripe, fresh, expressive, layered and beautifully complex nose of very earthy and discreetly spicy dark pinot fruit is trimmed in a touch of the sauvage that precedes the intense and broad-shouldered flavors that are tautly muscled and mildly rustic but deliver excellent finishing power, depth and length as well as more than a dollop of the typical young Clos de Vougeot austerity. This is a big wine needing at least a decade to arrive at its full potential. Drink 2023+. |
|
| Louis Jadot |
2010 |
Chapelle Chambertin Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$299 |
4 |
|
| |
| BH 93 (4/2013): ( from En Gémeaux; these are the oldest vines of the entire Jadot portfolio of owned vineyards.) This was quite reduced at first and required more than an hour of aeration to finally reveal fresh, cool and mineral-inflected red berry fruit, earth, game, humus and forest floor aromas. There is superb intensity to the almost aggressively stone and beautifully well-delineated large-scaled flavors that possess an extremely firm, mouth coating and driving finish. There is a real sense of underlying tension with an overt austerity to the very serious and stunningly long finish. The En Gémeaux character of pungent minerality is about as front and center as I have ever seen it. I repeat that this is at present one very, very austere wine and there is absolutely zero reason to open a bottle young. However, if you choose to commit wine infanticide of such an egregious nature, give it 4 to 6 hours in a decanter. I believe based on how the wine evolved over several days that it will in time be genuinely excellent as the underlying material is certainly present but this is most definitely a "bury in the back of the cellar and forget you own it" Chapelle. Drink 2030+. |
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|
2010 |
Grands Echezeaux Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$475 |
4 |
|
| |
|
|
2010 |
Grands Echezeaux Grand Cru (1.5 L) Nicked Label |
$475 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2006 |
Mazis Chambertin Grand Cru (3.0 L) Chipped Wax Capsule. |
$675 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 90-92 (4/2008): A very different nose presents itself here with fresh, cool and intensely feral notes on the otherwise pretty red berry and earth suffused aromas that lead to rich, full and sweet flavors that are delicious but serious, all wrapped in a minerally finish of excellent length. There isn't quite the depth of material here of the very best in the range but it's not far off and this should make for a very satisfying and classic Mazis in 8 to 10 years. Drink 2014+.
VM 90-93 (4/2008): Saturated, deep ruby-red. Musky, distinctly wild aromas of black fruits, mocha and smoked meat. Concentrated and rather powerful but juicy, with slightly reduced flavors of dark berries, minerals and game. As creamy as the Chapelle but not quite as sweet and lush on the finish. |
|
| Louis Jadot (negociant) |
2010 |
Bonnes Mares Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$499 |
1 |
|
| |
| BH 92-95 (4/2012): (100% from the Chambolle side.) A complex, pure and beautifully layered extract of red berry fruit, particularly raspberry nose mixes with notes of stone, earth and a hint of the sauvage. The rich and equally pure tautly muscular flavors exude a fine minerality and I especially like the sense of underlying tension as it imparts energy to the balanced, focused and strikingly long finish. When viewed through the lens of a typical Bonnes Mares, this comes across as a refined effort, which is undoubtedly because of the very fine grain of the supporting tannins. Drink 2027+. Don't miss! |
|
| Maison Henri Boillot |
2014 |
Le Chambertin Grand Cru (3.0 L) ex-Domaine; Cracked Capsule, Cork Exposed |
$1,095 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94-97 (1/2016): (aging in two new Remond barrels): Bright, dark red. Deep, brooding aromas of black cherry and smoke are currently muted by a bit of reduction. Then wonderfully sweet, silky and seamless on the palate, conveying an incredibly suave texture and great inner-mouth perfume to the complex flavors of dark berries, earth and smoky oak. Very classy juice; Boillot told me he used the same "precise" barrique for the Volnay Champans and that he plans to use more Remond barrels in the future. The rising, subtly spicy finish shows uncanny energy and a lighter touch than the Clos de Bèze. A knockout.
BH 94 (4/2016): ( near the very top of the vineyard and atypically, the rows are planted North-South.) This also exhibits just enough reduction to push the seemingly ripe fruit to the background. As is usually the case this is more mineral-driven still with its big-bodied and overtly powerful flavors that also possess fine mid-palate concentration while culminating in a firmly structured, austere and backward finale. This is certainly a big wine but it's not massive; indeed it is a lovely combination of power and grace. Drink 2026+. Don't miss! |
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|
2013 |
Volnay 1er Cru Champans (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$229.99 |
12 |
|
| |
BH 91 (4/2015): Here the nose plays right on the edge of reduction and it's enough to shave the top notes off of the earthy red berry fruit and softly spicy aromas. This too possesses impressive volume to the intense and well-concentrated medium-bodied flavors that exude a fine bead of minerality on the dense, serious, austere and lingering finish. This is a bit more robust than the Santenots but it is by no means rustic. Drink 2021+. Outstanding! VM 90-92 (1/2015): (from vines more than 60 years of age): Bright, dark red. Pungent, high-pitched aromas of cherry, mint, licorice and herbs, plus a cool whiff of menthol. Juicy, sappy and perfumed, with the licorice quality carrying through in the mouth. This very youthful, savory wine finishes with lovely lift and thrust, and lingering rose and violet perfume.
WA 88-90 (12/2014): The 2013 Volnay Champans 1er Cru has a slightly more floral bouquet compared to the Fremiets, around the same level of aromatics. The palate is medium-bodied with a firm grip on the entry, moderate acidity and quite a dense, blackberry and spice-tinged finish that lingers nicely in the mouth. This is a satisfactory Volnay, though without the nervosité of the Caillerets. |
|
| | Burgundy White |
| Joseph Drouhin |
2008 |
Le Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche Grand Cru (3.0 L) |
$2,599 |
2 |
|
| |
BH 93-96 (6/2010): (from a 2.06 ha parcel on the Puligny side.) A perfumed and simply knock-out nose features highly perfumed notes of honeysuckle, acacia blossom, sandalwood and yellow orchard fruit aromas that give way to powerful, rich and dense full-bodied flavors that possess obvious muscle and simply huge length on the overtly austere, deep and palate staining finish. This is a dazzling effort that will only add to the already immense reputation this wine enjoys but note that patience will be required.
VM 93 (9/2010): Very ripe aromas of sweet stone fruits and clove. Very fat, rich and stuffed with fruit; a distinctly round style of Montrachet with an exotic aspect. This mounts impressively on the back end, finishing very rich and very long. The acidity is higher than that of the 2007, notes winemaker Jerome Faure-Brac, but so is the pH. And this is more generous. |
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|
2009 |
Le Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche Grand Cru (3.0 L) |
$2,599 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (9/2011): The 2009 Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche explodes from the glass with intense layers of tropical fruit, passion fruit, butter, spices and vanillin. It is a totally engaging wine, with endless waves of flavors that build towards the dramatic finish. This is a decidedly exotic wine that captures the essence of the year. Is is perhaps the most ‘2009’ wine in this lineup. This parcel, which is just a bit larger than two hectares, sits on the Puligny side. Anticipated maturity: 2014+.
BH 93 (4/2015): This is much riper than the 2010 with its softly exotic (but not tropical) nose of pear, mango, peach, oak and floral aromas. The big, opulent and ultra-intense broad-based flavors also remain extremely backward and tight yet the palate staining finish is hugely persistent. This border-line massive effort will require the better part of a decade to reach its full potential but should be well worth the wait as the underlying material is most impressive.
VM 93 (9/2011): (14.6% alcohol): Medium yellow. Oily aromas of nectarine, apricot, smoke, ginger and marzipan. Large-scaled and expansive Montrachet, with sexy stone fruit, spice and dusty mineral flavors showing no rough edges. This is almost too big for the mouth! More exotic notes of pineapple and honey emerged with aeration. Finishes with plenty of dusty minerality. I'd give this five years in the cellar, but I wonder if it has the tautness or tension for a long evolution in bottle. |
|
| Maison Henri Boillot |
2016 |
Meursault (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$114.99 |
36 |
|
| |
BH 89 (6/2018): ( a blend of equal proportions from Narvaux, Tillets, Clos du Cromin and Chevalières.) Notes of mineral reduction, hazelnut, acacia blossom and lemon can be found on the expressive nose. The racy, intense and ultra-pure flavors possess excellent depth and persistence on the notably dry finale. A lovely villages. Drink 2022+. Outstanding!
VM 89-91 (9/2017): Bright yellow. Very ripe apricot and sexy oak on the nose. Plush, thick and concentrated for village wine, conveying an intriguing sweet/salty balance and surprisingly firm acidity and cut. Finishes saline, serious and long; this will probably need a couple years in bottle to harmonize. A very promising village wine. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| | Rhone Red |
| Clos des Papes |
2013 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (3.0 L) |
$375 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 94 (11/2015): Very juicy and lively in feel, with pepper, tobacco and bay leaf notes leading the way for a core of raspberry, bitter plum and red currant coulis flavors. The long finish lets the pepper and tobacco notes play out, with pleasant acidity embedded throughout. Very Provençal in feel. Best from 2017 through 2026. 4,000 cases made.
VM 93 (4/2016): Brilliant ruby. Highly perfumed aromas of ripe red berries, incense, garrigue and smoky minerals convey a sexy Asian spice nuance in the background. Supple, seamless and alluringly sweet, offering intense black raspberry and floral pastille flavors that stain the palate. Smooth, seamless and concentrated but energetic as well, with velvety, slow-building tannins giving shape to a very long, spice- and mineral-accented finish. Josh Raynolds.
JLL ****[*] (10/2015): Red robe, fair depth. The nose leads on raspberry fruit with a note of blackberry, along with spice, licorice - it isn’t right out today, but has scope. There is some rose hip, a coulis style fruiting, and pepper as well. This is spiced, hidden wine, its shape upright, one that weaves a slight zig-zag, delivers moments of rocky tannin. The gras and juice are pleasing for now, and are well camouflaged by its tannins, which are ripe and crunchy. The finish is tight. This has Mourvèdre licorice breadth. The heart is juicy, with intense juice at its epicentre. 14.8°. "It is very Mourvèdre, also on kirsch. It will keep well over time. 2013 is the year that has most gained in my career since 1987 from its 12 months of barrel raising," Vincent Avril. From 2019.
WA 92 (10/2015): Tasted out of bottle, the 2013 Châteauneuf du Pape comes from miniscule yields of 13 hectoliter per hectare (25-39 hectoliters per hectare is normal for the appellation), and hits 14.8% natural alcohol. It has a darker, slightly more concentrated, austere feel than the 2014, and has ample kirsch, blackberry, peppery and crushed rock-like aromas and flavors. Vincent commented that he thinks this vintage will shut down after a few years in bottle, so if you’re going try one in its youth, find the corkscrew. While obviously not a great wine, it’s certainly outstanding and has considerable charm and elegance. It will also have 10-15 years of overall longevity. |
|
| Dom. de Mourchon |
2013 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Grande Reserve (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$59.99 |
21 |
|
| |
JLL **** (4/2015): Black-tinted robe; the nose gives a rounded air of black berry fruit, with a note of black olive tapenade and cocoa, so successfully expresses meridional climes. It is on the dark side of the equation, without the softness of really ripe Grenache. The palate holds rolling black fruit with a slightly chalky tannin late moment, ending freshly. Atypical Séguret on the palate, with its notable darkness and upright features. This is long. From late 2016.
WS 91 (3/2016): Ripe and racy, with excellent definition to the cassis, blackberry and raspberry fruit, supported by light bramble and anise accents and driving through the chalk-edged finish. Drink now through 2021. 3,500 cases made.
WA 90 (3/2016): The outstanding 2013 Seguret Grande Reserve is an old vine blend of Grenache and Syrah that's from higher elevation vineyards and limestone soils located above the village of Seguret. More tight, focused and reserved than normal for this cuvee, it still has fabulous intensity in its black raspberry, licorice, violet and peppery garrigue aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, nicely concentrated, with ripe tannin, it makes the most of this difficult vintage and will have a decade of longevity. |
|
| Dom. du Coulet |
2007 |
Cornas Gore (1.5 L) |
$299 |
6 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. du Tix |
2012 |
Cotes du Ventoux Cuvee de Bramefan (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$54.99 |
5 |
|
| |
| WS 88 (12/2015): This has a warm cocoa frame around a core of lightly steeped plum and raspberry fruit flavors. A singed-cinnamon note lines the finish. Drink now. 1,000 cases made. |
|
| Dom. la Barroche |
2015 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Pure (1.5 L) |
$239.99 |
5 |
|
| |
JD 95 (10/2017): Offering more kirsch liqueur, lavender, incense and sweet spice, the 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Pure is another gorgeous, balanced, seamless beauty. Fine tannin, full-bodied richness, and solid freshness all develop in the glass, and it has a great finish. Like the traditional cuvée, it's elegant, long, and will keep for 15+ years. This cuvée is always from the same parcel located at the intersection of the le Grand Pierre, le Pointu and Rayas lieux-dits, is fermented all in concrete and spends 18 months in a single foudre. There are only 250 cases produced and it’s year in, year out, one of the greatest Grenache’s made in the world.
WA 95-97 (10/2016): One of the most impressive barrel samples of this cuvée I can remember, the 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Pure is always almost 100% Grenache that comes from a tiny parcel of sandy soils located right at the junction of the Grand Pierre, Pointu and Rayas lieux-dits. Partially destemmed, vinified in concrete and aged in a single, ancient foudre, this sensational-looking Châteauneuf du Pape dishes out incredible amounts of ripe cherries, blueberries, crushed rocks and crushed flowers. Big, full-bodied, thick and unctuous, it got a few expletives in the notes, and for all its size and weight, it stays lively, pure and even elegant. My money is on this beauty being one of the top wines in the vintage.
JLL ****[*] (10/2015): Dark colour; has a great nose which is perfumed, and gives expressive fruit. This is beau, really prolonged and both stately and fresh at the same time. It builds tannin on the finish, which is aromatic.
VM 93-95 (3/2017): (most of these vines are now over 115 years old; fermented in large concrete eggs and aged in a large older foudre) Lurid ruby. A complex, highly perfumed bouquet evokes fresh dark berries, cola, incense and potpourri, and a hint of smoky minerality emerges with air. Juicy, penetrating black raspberry, bitter cherry and lavender pastille flavors show superb depth and energy and stretch out to become sweeter on the back half. Shows excellent clarity and spicy lift on a long, sappy finish framed by velvety, slow-building tannins. For such a generous wine, there's no lack of vivacity here. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2015 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Pure (3.0 L) |
$479.99 |
5 |
|
| |
JD 95 (10/2017): Offering more kirsch liqueur, lavender, incense and sweet spice, the 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Pure is another gorgeous, balanced, seamless beauty. Fine tannin, full-bodied richness, and solid freshness all develop in the glass, and it has a great finish. Like the traditional cuvée, it's elegant, long, and will keep for 15+ years. This cuvée is always from the same parcel located at the intersection of the le Grand Pierre, le Pointu and Rayas lieux-dits, is fermented all in concrete and spends 18 months in a single foudre. There are only 250 cases produced and it’s year in, year out, one of the greatest Grenache’s made in the world.
WA 95-97 (10/2016): One of the most impressive barrel samples of this cuvée I can remember, the 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Pure is always almost 100% Grenache that comes from a tiny parcel of sandy soils located right at the junction of the Grand Pierre, Pointu and Rayas lieux-dits. Partially destemmed, vinified in concrete and aged in a single, ancient foudre, this sensational-looking Châteauneuf du Pape dishes out incredible amounts of ripe cherries, blueberries, crushed rocks and crushed flowers. Big, full-bodied, thick and unctuous, it got a few expletives in the notes, and for all its size and weight, it stays lively, pure and even elegant. My money is on this beauty being one of the top wines in the vintage.
JLL ****[*] (10/2015): Dark colour; has a great nose which is perfumed, and gives expressive fruit. This is beau, really prolonged and both stately and fresh at the same time. It builds tannin on the finish, which is aromatic.
VM 93-95 (3/2017): (most of these vines are now over 115 years old; fermented in large concrete eggs and aged in a large older foudre) Lurid ruby. A complex, highly perfumed bouquet evokes fresh dark berries, cola, incense and potpourri, and a hint of smoky minerality emerges with air. Juicy, penetrating black raspberry, bitter cherry and lavender pastille flavors show superb depth and energy and stretch out to become sweeter on the back half. Shows excellent clarity and spicy lift on a long, sappy finish framed by velvety, slow-building tannins. For such a generous wine, there's no lack of vivacity here. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2015 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Pure (6.0 L) |
$979.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95 (10/2017): Offering more kirsch liqueur, lavender, incense and sweet spice, the 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Pure is another gorgeous, balanced, seamless beauty. Fine tannin, full-bodied richness, and solid freshness all develop in the glass, and it has a great finish. Like the traditional cuvée, it's elegant, long, and will keep for 15+ years. This cuvée is always from the same parcel located at the intersection of the le Grand Pierre, le Pointu and Rayas lieux-dits, is fermented all in concrete and spends 18 months in a single foudre. There are only 250 cases produced and it’s year in, year out, one of the greatest Grenache’s made in the world.
WA 95-97 (10/2016): One of the most impressive barrel samples of this cuvée I can remember, the 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Pure is always almost 100% Grenache that comes from a tiny parcel of sandy soils located right at the junction of the Grand Pierre, Pointu and Rayas lieux-dits. Partially destemmed, vinified in concrete and aged in a single, ancient foudre, this sensational-looking Châteauneuf du Pape dishes out incredible amounts of ripe cherries, blueberries, crushed rocks and crushed flowers. Big, full-bodied, thick and unctuous, it got a few expletives in the notes, and for all its size and weight, it stays lively, pure and even elegant. My money is on this beauty being one of the top wines in the vintage.
JLL ****[*] (10/2015): Dark colour; has a great nose which is perfumed, and gives expressive fruit. This is beau, really prolonged and both stately and fresh at the same time. It builds tannin on the finish, which is aromatic.
VM 93-95 (3/2017): (most of these vines are now over 115 years old; fermented in large concrete eggs and aged in a large older foudre) Lurid ruby. A complex, highly perfumed bouquet evokes fresh dark berries, cola, incense and potpourri, and a hint of smoky minerality emerges with air. Juicy, penetrating black raspberry, bitter cherry and lavender pastille flavors show superb depth and energy and stretch out to become sweeter on the back half. Shows excellent clarity and spicy lift on a long, sappy finish framed by velvety, slow-building tannins. For such a generous wine, there's no lack of vivacity here. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2012 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (3.0 L) |
$209.99 |
2 |
|
| |
JLL **** (10/2015): The robe is still a dark red. The aroma is deep with a roast beef, thick inset of mulberry - this is a solid bouquet with plenty to give. There are good, crunchy goings-on here: black berry, prune in the flavour, sparky tannins, good ripeness on them, too. The nose and palate link well. Salt moments, coffee show late on. Beau vin - it is STGT in a modern take, has good soul and life. From mid-2017.
WA 92 (9/2015): Showing slightly better now than it did on release (which is common for all of Julien's wines, and the '12s in general), the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Signature is a blend of 65% Grenache, 16% Mourvedre, 13% Syrah and 6% other permitted varieties. It's young and fruity, yet still delivers tons of pleasure with its cassis, licorice, crushed flower and garrigue aromas and flavors. Beautifully fruited, rounded, supple and with sweet tannin, I suspect it will age gracefully (similar to '06) and drink well for all its life.
VM 92 (4/2015): Deep ruby. Heady spice-accented blackberry and cherry aromas are complicated by suave floral and spice qualities, with white pepper and licorice nuances emering with air. Seamless, broad and sweet in the mouth, offering silky black and blue fruit preserve flavors and a hint of allspice. Closes juicy and long, with slow-building tannins and lingering spiciness. Josh Raynolds.
WS 92 (11/2014): The direct black currant and fig paste notes are underscored with tobacco, tar and roasted alder hints, revealing an echo of Black Forest cake. The finish rumbles along, leaving a dark, slightly muscular feel. Best from 2015 through 2027. 125 cases made. |
|
|
2012 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (6.0 L) |
$419.99 |
5 |
|
| |
JLL **** (10/2015): The robe is still a dark red. The aroma is deep with a roast beef, thick inset of mulberry - this is a solid bouquet with plenty to give. There are good, crunchy goings-on here: black berry, prune in the flavour, sparky tannins, good ripeness on them, too. The nose and palate link well. Salt moments, coffee show late on. Beau vin - it is STGT in a modern take, has good soul and life. From mid-2017.
WA 92 (9/2015): Showing slightly better now than it did on release (which is common for all of Julien's wines, and the '12s in general), the 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape Signature is a blend of 65% Grenache, 16% Mourvedre, 13% Syrah and 6% other permitted varieties. It's young and fruity, yet still delivers tons of pleasure with its cassis, licorice, crushed flower and garrigue aromas and flavors. Beautifully fruited, rounded, supple and with sweet tannin, I suspect it will age gracefully (similar to '06) and drink well for all its life.
VM 92 (4/2015): Deep ruby. Heady spice-accented blackberry and cherry aromas are complicated by suave floral and spice qualities, with white pepper and licorice nuances emering with air. Seamless, broad and sweet in the mouth, offering silky black and blue fruit preserve flavors and a hint of allspice. Closes juicy and long, with slow-building tannins and lingering spiciness. Josh Raynolds.
WS 92 (11/2014): The direct black currant and fig paste notes are underscored with tobacco, tar and roasted alder hints, revealing an echo of Black Forest cake. The finish rumbles along, leaving a dark, slightly muscular feel. Best from 2015 through 2027. 125 cases made. |
|
|
2013 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$99.99 |
9 |
|
| |
VM 92 (4/2016): Deep ruby. Displays powerful spice- and mineral-accented aromas of black raspberry and boysenberry, along with suggestions of white pepper and lavender pastilles. Stains the palate with intense, spice-tinged red and blue fruit flavors, deftly marrying power and finesse. Finishes sweet, smoky and extremely long, with resonating minerality and a lingering blueberry note. Quite rich for an entry-level Châteauneuf, but then again, this bottling does benefit from a good dose of fruit normally destined for the Pure bottling. Josh Raynolds.
JLL *** (10/2015): Dark red robe. The nose is full, gives airs of smoky bacon, a pile of raspberry and dark berry fruit in the picture, is rather plump in that way. There is a backdrop of blackberry, licorice, cocoa. The palate travels directly with clear-cut black fruit and a rocky tannin after half way. It is still very young, a touch clipped. It finishes solidly, clearly. The exit is knuckled, grainy. This swings along, but needs to expand the finale, has content for the future. “It has very belle acidity, tension, though the 2014 tannins are more silken,” Julien Barrot.
WA 91 (10/2015): The 2013 Châteauneuf du Pape Signature, which got all of the Grenache grapes normally designated for Pure, is a medium to full-bodied, nicely structured effort that exhibits lots of black cherry, smoked herbs, licorice and spice.The wine is nicely concentrated and with enough tannin to benefit from a year or two in the cellar; it’s an outstanding wine that will drink nicely through 2025.
WS 90 (2/2016): Stylish, with a caressing edge to the black cherry, plum and blackberry flavors that stream throughout, gilded with hints of fruitcake and warmed anise. Silky but substantial tannins carry the finish. Best from 2017 through 2023. 1,200 cases made. |
|
|
2014 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$84.99 |
25 |
|
| |
JLL **** (10/2015): Dark, full red robe. Pepper-licorice feature in a live, open nose that is full of life, has streamlined black cherry fruit at its heart, and a kind air of flowers such as violets. The palate presents live, pepped up black fruit with salted moments, so it drinks well. There is a small knot of late tannin-tar. This is pacy wine with brio and w.o.w. potential, offering direct, good, coursing fruit . It is 15°, but you wouldn’t know it. It can gain fat as it ages. From mid-2017. “The skins, pips, sugars and tannins all ripened together, which is rare, in 2014. It has expanded since the spring of 2015, has a lot of salinity,” Julien Barrot.
VM 91-93 (4/2016): (fermented in concrete and aged in used foudres and demi-muids): Vivid ruby. Deep, smoke-accented dark berry and floral pastille scents are sharpened by a note of peppery spice. Smoky and sweet in the mouth, offering concentrated boysenberry and cherry flavors and a hint of candied violet. Shows very good power and energy and finishes with excellent focus and length; velvety, late-arriving tannins add shape. Quite serious for an entry-level bottling; I'd bet on this making a solid cellar candidate. Josh Raynolds.
WS 91 (10/2016): Juicy, with plum paste and raspberry pâte de fruit flavors that race along, bolstered by a bright anise note. Stays juicy through the finish, showing hints of plum skin, fruitcake and lightly singed alder. Best from 2017 through 2025. 1,800 cases made.
WA 90 (10/2016): The 2014 Châteauneuf du Pape checks in as a blend of 62% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre, 13% Syrah and the rest Cinsault, Clairette Rose and Vaccarèse, all of which was raised mostly in older foudre, with smaller amounts in demi-muids and stainless steel. Medium-bodied, focused and lively, with good concentration and a vibrant, Burgundian-like tension and focus, it offers classic Southern Rhône notes of garrigue, Provençal spice, sappy herbs, and black raspberry and cherry fruit characteristics. Drink it anytime over the coming 7-8 years. |
|
|
2015 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$104.99 |
31 |
|
| |
JLL ****[*] (10/2015): (Syrah from red clay, galet (atypical) soils on Pradel, sugars ended, just devatted now) **** good and dark, notable colour. Has a blackberry fruit air of deep potential, sustained linger. This can be stylish and inviting. The palate is round, rich, holds good, encased tannins, has definite ways to go. This is long and full, is a bright wine with a natural depth. 18 years. 2) (50% Grenache, 50% Mourvèdre, both 2005, from mixed clay, sand on Cabrières) **** extremely dark. Aromtaic dark berry fruit, round and deep nose. Violets and crisp fruit show on the palate. This is good, plucky wine, full of beans: it is wide, and its tannins fit snugly. It holds good, running fruit, and the finish is fresh. 18-20 years. 3) Grenache from Terres Blanches, Cabrières, Palestor, whole bunch, 5 gm of sugar to complete) ****(*) dark robe. Broad, upfront nose. Exuberant fruit comes out off the bat on the palate, with a crunch of tannins connected to the whole bunches at the end. Lively, free running, aromatic after taste. 21 years. 4) (Mourvèdre, 1990, from Les Mascarrons, sugars not yet finished) ****(*) vary dark; has a sturdy nose, several layers of black berry. This is racy, crystalline, expressive; the clarity of the tannins is notable. I like the length, too. 24 years.
JD 92 (10/2017): The 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from the young Julien Barrot is a perfumed, elegant release that's loaded with notions of currants, kirsch, licorice, and spice. It's silky, elegant, ethereally textured and long, with the freshness and classic style of the vintage. As usual, the classic cuvée is a blend of roughly 60% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre and the balance Clairette Rose, Cinsault, Syrah, and Vaccarèse, fermented all in concrete tanks and aged mostly in foudre. 2,500 cases.
VM 91-93 (3/2017): (fermented in concrete eggs and aged in foudres and stainless steel tanks) Vivid ruby. Highly expressive cherry and black raspberry aromas are complicated by energetic floral and Asian spice nuances. Sappy, sweet and broad in the mouth, offering juicy, densely packed red and dark berry flavors that become deeper as the wine open up. Stains the palate and shows impressive vivacity on the persistent, floral-dominated finish, which is framed by silky, harmonious tannins. Josh Raynolds.
WA 90-92 (10/2016): The 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Signature is a blend of 62% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre, 13% Syrah and the rest Vaccarèse, Clairette Rose and Cinsault. Vinified all in concrete and aged in a combination of foudre, demi-muids and stainless steel, it offers a tight, grippy, medium to full-bodied and beautifully structured style, as well as classic notes of black raspberries, black cherries, crushed flowers and hints of crushed rock. I love its tension, purity and focus, and it has terrific length on the finish as well. |
|
|
2015 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (3.0 L) ex-Domaine |
$229.99 |
11 |
|
| |
JLL ****[*] (10/2015): (Syrah from red clay, galet (atypical) soils on Pradel, sugars ended, just devatted now) **** good and dark, notable colour. Has a blackberry fruit air of deep potential, sustained linger. This can be stylish and inviting. The palate is round, rich, holds good, encased tannins, has definite ways to go. This is long and full, is a bright wine with a natural depth. 18 years. 2) (50% Grenache, 50% Mourvèdre, both 2005, from mixed clay, sand on Cabrières) **** extremely dark. Aromtaic dark berry fruit, round and deep nose. Violets and crisp fruit show on the palate. This is good, plucky wine, full of beans: it is wide, and its tannins fit snugly. It holds good, running fruit, and the finish is fresh. 18-20 years. 3) Grenache from Terres Blanches, Cabrières, Palestor, whole bunch, 5 gm of sugar to complete) ****(*) dark robe. Broad, upfront nose. Exuberant fruit comes out off the bat on the palate, with a crunch of tannins connected to the whole bunches at the end. Lively, free running, aromatic after taste. 21 years. 4) (Mourvèdre, 1990, from Les Mascarrons, sugars not yet finished) ****(*) vary dark; has a sturdy nose, several layers of black berry. This is racy, crystalline, expressive; the clarity of the tannins is notable. I like the length, too. 24 years.
JD 92 (10/2017): The 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from the young Julien Barrot is a perfumed, elegant release that's loaded with notions of currants, kirsch, licorice, and spice. It's silky, elegant, ethereally textured and long, with the freshness and classic style of the vintage. As usual, the classic cuvée is a blend of roughly 60% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre and the balance Clairette Rose, Cinsault, Syrah, and Vaccarèse, fermented all in concrete tanks and aged mostly in foudre. 2,500 cases.
VM 91-93 (3/2017): (fermented in concrete eggs and aged in foudres and stainless steel tanks) Vivid ruby. Highly expressive cherry and black raspberry aromas are complicated by energetic floral and Asian spice nuances. Sappy, sweet and broad in the mouth, offering juicy, densely packed red and dark berry flavors that become deeper as the wine open up. Stains the palate and shows impressive vivacity on the persistent, floral-dominated finish, which is framed by silky, harmonious tannins. Josh Raynolds.
WA 90-92 (10/2016): The 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Signature is a blend of 62% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre, 13% Syrah and the rest Vaccarèse, Clairette Rose and Cinsault. Vinified all in concrete and aged in a combination of foudre, demi-muids and stainless steel, it offers a tight, grippy, medium to full-bodied and beautifully structured style, as well as classic notes of black raspberries, black cherries, crushed flowers and hints of crushed rock. I love its tension, purity and focus, and it has terrific length on the finish as well. |
|
|
2015 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (6.0 L) ex-Domaine |
$459.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JLL ****[*] (10/2015): (Syrah from red clay, galet (atypical) soils on Pradel, sugars ended, just devatted now) **** good and dark, notable colour. Has a blackberry fruit air of deep potential, sustained linger. This can be stylish and inviting. The palate is round, rich, holds good, encased tannins, has definite ways to go. This is long and full, is a bright wine with a natural depth. 18 years. 2) (50% Grenache, 50% Mourvèdre, both 2005, from mixed clay, sand on Cabrières) **** extremely dark. Aromtaic dark berry fruit, round and deep nose. Violets and crisp fruit show on the palate. This is good, plucky wine, full of beans: it is wide, and its tannins fit snugly. It holds good, running fruit, and the finish is fresh. 18-20 years. 3) Grenache from Terres Blanches, Cabrières, Palestor, whole bunch, 5 gm of sugar to complete) ****(*) dark robe. Broad, upfront nose. Exuberant fruit comes out off the bat on the palate, with a crunch of tannins connected to the whole bunches at the end. Lively, free running, aromatic after taste. 21 years. 4) (Mourvèdre, 1990, from Les Mascarrons, sugars not yet finished) ****(*) vary dark; has a sturdy nose, several layers of black berry. This is racy, crystalline, expressive; the clarity of the tannins is notable. I like the length, too. 24 years.
JD 92 (10/2017): The 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from the young Julien Barrot is a perfumed, elegant release that's loaded with notions of currants, kirsch, licorice, and spice. It's silky, elegant, ethereally textured and long, with the freshness and classic style of the vintage. As usual, the classic cuvée is a blend of roughly 60% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre and the balance Clairette Rose, Cinsault, Syrah, and Vaccarèse, fermented all in concrete tanks and aged mostly in foudre. 2,500 cases.
VM 91-93 (3/2017): (fermented in concrete eggs and aged in foudres and stainless steel tanks) Vivid ruby. Highly expressive cherry and black raspberry aromas are complicated by energetic floral and Asian spice nuances. Sappy, sweet and broad in the mouth, offering juicy, densely packed red and dark berry flavors that become deeper as the wine open up. Stains the palate and shows impressive vivacity on the persistent, floral-dominated finish, which is framed by silky, harmonious tannins. Josh Raynolds.
WA 90-92 (10/2016): The 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Signature is a blend of 62% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre, 13% Syrah and the rest Vaccarèse, Clairette Rose and Cinsault. Vinified all in concrete and aged in a combination of foudre, demi-muids and stainless steel, it offers a tight, grippy, medium to full-bodied and beautifully structured style, as well as classic notes of black raspberries, black cherries, crushed flowers and hints of crushed rock. I love its tension, purity and focus, and it has terrific length on the finish as well. |
|
| Dom. Roger Sabon |
2003 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Corroded Capsule |
$100 |
3 |
|
| |
WS 95 (9/2005): Dense raspberry, plum, licorice, tar and bacon notes are supported by thick, muscular tannins in this concentrated, showy red. A bit of a brute now (though floral and mineral hints chime in too) so cellar. If you do, you'll have a classic example of the vintage. Best from 2007 through 2025. 1,250 cases made.
WA 92 (2/2006): Broad, expansive, rich, and impressively endowed, the dark ruby/purple-colored 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige is dense, chewy, and meaty with high levels of alcohol, hints of roasted meats, kirsch liqueur, herbes de Provence, creme de cassis, and melted licorice. It is a broad, mouthfilling Chateauneuf du Pape that is classic and substantial. Drink it over the next 12-15 years.
VM 86 (2/2006): Pale ruby color. Meaty, earthy and pungent on the nose, with powerful black cherry and plum liqueur aromas accented by notes of black tea, smoked meat and cracked pepper. Turns riper and more roasted as it opens, the dark fruit qualities becoming hotter and sharper. This clearly displays the roasted character of the vintage. |
|
|
2003 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage |
$100 |
2 |
|
| |
WS 95 (9/2005): Dense raspberry, plum, licorice, tar and bacon notes are supported by thick, muscular tannins in this concentrated, showy red. A bit of a brute now (though floral and mineral hints chime in too) so cellar. If you do, you'll have a classic example of the vintage. Best from 2007 through 2025. 1,250 cases made.
WA 92 (2/2006): Broad, expansive, rich, and impressively endowed, the dark ruby/purple-colored 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige is dense, chewy, and meaty with high levels of alcohol, hints of roasted meats, kirsch liqueur, herbes de Provence, creme de cassis, and melted licorice. It is a broad, mouthfilling Chateauneuf du Pape that is classic and substantial. Drink it over the next 12-15 years.
VM 86 (2/2006): Pale ruby color. Meaty, earthy and pungent on the nose, with powerful black cherry and plum liqueur aromas accented by notes of black tea, smoked meat and cracked pepper. Turns riper and more roasted as it opens, the dark fruit qualities becoming hotter and sharper. This clearly displays the roasted character of the vintage. |
|
| Le Vieux Donjon |
2000 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Lightly Nicked Label |
$125 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 93 (5/2010): A textbook Châteauneuf, the 2000 Le Vieux Donjon Châteauneuf-du-Pape exhibits copious garrigue, rusty iron, earth and black cherry fruit on the nose. It’s showing solid complexity but there’s still fresh, ripe fruit. In the mouth, the wine is medium to full bodied with solid underlying structure, a superb texture and a long, quality finish. This should continue to drink well over the next 10 or more years.
VM 92 (2/2003): Full deep red. Highly nuanced nose combines roasted, liqueur-like red fruits, smoke, truffle and spice cake; this reminded me of Vega Sicilia! Then silky but vinous and firm; a bit subdued today but boasts lovely fruit intensity and incipient complexity. Finishes long and subtle, with ripe, suave tannins and a late note of pepper. This should develop beautifully with bottle aging. Stephen Tanzer.
WS 92 (11/2002): Beautiful, silky Châteauneuf terroir aromas: leather, game, truffles, plum, dried herbs, lead pencil. It all swirls around in the palate, a deeply satisfying blend that surprises and harks back to something as simple as a walk in the country on a rainy autumn day. Supple tannins on the balanced finish. Drink now through 2010. 4,165 cases made.
JLL **** (12/2010): Smoky, wispy, latent red fruits aroma at first, then the air brings on a more earthy, fundamental, farmyard display. Pretty, striking red fruit that has real dash about it, big and lovely fruit. There is a lovely ball of intensity in the fruit, and it distributes its favours openly – it is nicely compact, savoury, tasty, even if it lacks a little cut. Very approachable, fine wine. Lingers well on the finish. Good balance overall.
WA 91 (2/2003): The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape represents an educational tour of the southern Rhone, in particular, Chateauneuf du Pape. It possesses all the appellation's classic components ... underbrush, garrigue, licorice, pepper, lavender, sweet black cherries, and incense. Extremely perfumed and heady, this full-bodied, moderately tannic offering comes close to matching the mass and blockbuster power of the 1998. Firm tannin in the finish suggests a long aging curve. Given my experience with Vieux Donjon, most of the classic vintages hit their peak at 7-8 years, where they remain for 5-6 years. Around age 15-16 they begin a slow decline. The 2000 should follow that path. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2016. |
|
| Paul Jaboulet Aine |
1990 |
Hermitage La Chapelle (3.0 L) |
$5,900 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (9/2015): The 1990 Hermitage La Chapelle lived up to its reputation on this occasion, and of the three titans (1990, 1978 and 1961), it was probably my favorite. Still inky colored and ruby at the rim, it offers an absolutely profound bouquet of sweet cassis, smoked meats, chocolate, licorice and spice. This is followed by a full-bodied, insanely textured, pure and hedonistic palate that has that perfect mix of still-vibrant fruit and ample secondary nuances. I suspect the '61 was even richer at this stage, but the overall purity and freshness here are incredible. It will continue to evolve for decades, but I'd happily open bottles today.
JLL ****** (3/2011): Very full robe, that is still through all the way through. The bouquet has a sweet air, rich, dried fruits such as dates with a mild floral air, blackberry undernotes, a mixture of oily and very minor damp touches of age. There are both salty and violet contributors, and creamy, brioche airs. What a warm breadth to this - an enormously wide and complete bouquet. The palate combines richness and grain, moves well, and has glints of direct focus. It has a lot more definition than last night’s 1990. Is has a fresh, tight, free run finish. Inside there are fine, fresh red fruits which build up into a final glow, a note of heat. It is more elegant and crisp than last night’s 1990. The finish has sinew in it.
JS 98 (12/2014): Gorgeous aromas of dark berry, dried meat, dried berry, game, wet earth and licorice. Floral. Full body with a wonderful texture of dried fruits, spices and berries. Very dense and muscular with wonderful balance and length. Dense and intense. Blockbuster style.
WS 97 (12/1999): As expected from this ideal vintage, this '90 is sensational. Inky in color and solidly anchored in its terroir, it springs to life with a symphony of flavors, from mineral to wet earth and blackberry. Marvelous balance among fruit, acidity and smooth tannins. Delicious now, but can hold.--La Chapelle vertical. Drink now through 2025. 9,400 cases made.
VM 96 (7/2010): Rh?ne lovers were out in full force on this night. Sadly, I only got to taste a handful of the wines being passed around. Still, these were four of the greatest wines I have ever tasted. The 1990 La Chapelle held its own in this grouping, and then some. The purity of the fruit and the wine’s finish were mind-bending. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| | Rhone White |
| M. Chapoutier |
1999 |
Ermitage Blanc LErmite (1.5 L) |
$549 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (4/2002): This is one of the greatest dry white wines I have ever tasted. The 1999 Ermitage l'Ermite is a liquid mineral, crystalline expression. It is the essence of its grape as well as terroir. It may be the greatest expression of terroir I have seen outside of a handful of Alsatian Rieslings (Clos Ste. Hune comes to mind). It has that transparent character that terroiristes talk more about than actually recognize. Drinking it is like consuming a liquified stony concoction mixed with white flowers, licorice, and honeyed fruits. It is frightfully pure, dense, and well-delineated. As I said last year, "There is no real fruit character, just glycerin, alcohol, and liquid stones." That's about it, but, wow, what an expression! Anticipated maturity: 2012-2050. This is for the connoisseur of rare wines. Along with Gerard and Jean-Louis Chave, Chapoutier is producing the finest expressions of white Hermitage. His single vineyard cuvees are to die for if you like these eccentric, idiosyncratic, mammoth dry whites.
JLL ****** (4/2006): Full yellow; buttered nose, quite simple at this stage; good, creamy wine - peach flavours and spice, good fat within. Slight aniseed on end. Fabulous elegance, good length and a clean finish.
WS 92 (11/2001): Beautiful. Thick, yet so reserved aromatically, with plenty of honey, mineral, macadamia nut, pear tart and passion fruit. What makes it a winner is the opulent, smooth texture. Drink now through 2010. 380 cases made. |
|
| | Southern France |
| Ch. de Pibarnon |
2016 |
Bandol Blanc (1.5 L) ex-Chateau |
$64.99 |
7 |
|
| |
|
| | Champagne |
| Canard-Duchene |
NV |
Authentic Brut Champagne (1.5 L) |
$78.99 |
52 |
|
| |
|
| Lanson |
1979 |
Brut Champagne (1.5 L) |
$599 |
10 |
|
| |
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|
1981 |
Brut Champagne (1.5 L) |
$549 |
7 |
|
| |
|
| Louis Roederer |
1982 |
Cristal Champagne (1.5 L) Heavily Bin-Soiled Label |
$1,800 |
1 |
|
| |
| MB [***[*]] (3/1991): In magnum and bottles; lively; firm, still relatively immature. Should be a 5-star mouthful now. |
|
|
1990 |
Cristal Champagne (1.5 L) |
$1,100 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (10/1998): The Louis Roederer 1990 Cristal is awesome! A classic of power and finesse, richness and delicacy, it may be the greatest Cristal I have ever tasted! One caveat. Champagne, more than any wine in the world, is extremely vulnerable to heat. Pierre Rovani has already tasted a cooked bottle of this wine. Readers need to be particularly careful when buying Champagne. |
|
| Moet & Chandon |
1978 |
P3 Champagne (1.5 L) Original Gift Box. Disgorged 2008. |
$3,850 |
1 |
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| |
|
| Veuve Clicquot |
1982 |
Cave Privee Champagne (1.5 L) |
$950 |
3 |
|
| |
| WS 95 (12/2014): Bright, sleek and elegant, with mouthwatering acidity, this is soft and creamy in texture, offering hints of smoked almond and whole-grain toast, accented by dried apple, crème brûlée and dried herb notes. Rich details of grilled nut and oyster shell linger on the persistent finish. Drink now through 2024. |
|
| | Other France |
| Dom. de la Prebende |
2016 |
Beaujolais Rose (1.5 L) |
$34.99 |
5 |
|
| |
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| | Bordeaux Red |
| Ch. Lafite Rothschild |
1988 |
Pauillac (1.5 L) ex-Negociant |
$1,799 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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| Ch. Leoville Poyferre |
2001 |
St. Julien (1.5 L) ex-Negociant |
$189.99 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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| Ch. Pavie Macquin |
2010 |
St. Emilion (1.5 L) ex-Negociant |
$299.99 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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| Vieux Chateau Certan |
2010 |
Pomerol (1.5 L) ex-Negociant |
$689 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| | Bordeaux White |
| Ch. d' Yquem |
2015 |
Ygrec Y du Yquem Bordeaux Superieur (1.5 L) ex-Negociant |
$259 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| | Burgundy Red |
| Christophe Perrot Minot |
2004 |
Chapelle Chambertin Grand Cru Vieilles Vignes (1.5 L) |
$219 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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| Dom. Alain Hudelot-Noellat |
1999 |
Romanee St. Vivant Grand Cru (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork; Lightly Torn Label |
$1,199 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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1999 |
Romanee St. Vivant Grand Cru (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork |
$1,199 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| Dom. Arnoux-Lachaux |
2008 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Les Suchots (1.5 L) |
$449 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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| Dom. Michel Gros |
1999 |
Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$299 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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| Dom. Ponsot |
2009 |
Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$898 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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2003 |
Clos de la Roche Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$669 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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2009 |
Corton Cuvee Bourdon Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$395 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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| Dom. Taupenot Merme |
2011 |
Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$199 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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| Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair |
2013 |
Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Clos des Grandes Vignes (1.5 L) |
$650 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
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2013 |
Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Clos des Grandes Vignes (1.5 L) Very Lightly Nicked Label |
$650 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| Frederic Esmonin |
2013 |
Ruchottes Chambertin Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$220 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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| Louis Jadot |
2004 |
Bonnes Mares Grand Cru (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork |
$275 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| Maison Henri Boillot |
2016 |
Bourgogne Pinot Noir (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$51.99 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| | Burgundy White |
| Etienne Sauzet |
2013 |
Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$999 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| | Rhone Red |
| Alain Voge |
2012 |
Cornas Cuvee Les Vieilles Fontaines (1.5 L) |
$249 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| Ch. de Beaucastel |
2003 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$139.99 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
|
2005 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$179.99 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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|
2009 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$159.99 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
|
2015 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (3.0 L) |
$324 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| Clos des Papes |
2005 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$229 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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2015 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$198.99 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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| Clos Saint Jean |
2009 |
Chateauneuf du Pape La Combe des Fous (1.5 L) Heavily Bin-Soiled Label |
$269 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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2007 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Sanctus Sanctorum (1.5 L) |
$1,599 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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2009 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Sanctus Sanctorum (1.5 L) |
$939 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| Dom. de la Janasse |
2007 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee XXL (1.5 L) |
$825 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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| Dom. du Pegau |
2007 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Capo (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork |
$798 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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2007 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Capo (1.5 L) Very Lightly Scuffed Label |
$798 |
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Sold Out
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| |
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2001 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Laurence (1.5 L) Depressed Cork |
$200 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
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2000 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork |
$175 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
|
2003 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Very Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$250 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| Dom. la Barroche |
2014 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (3.0 L) ex-Domaine |
$249 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| Dom. Roger Sabon |
2003 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige (1.5 L) |
$100 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| Dom. St. Prefert |
2009 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve Auguste Favier (1.5 L) |
$104.99 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| Le Vieux Donjon |
1995 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) Lightly Bin-Soiled Label; Lightly Scuffed Label |
$120 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| M. Chapoutier |
2006 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Croix de Bois (1.5 L) |
$140 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
|
2006 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Croix de Bois (1.5 L) Very Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$140 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
|
2002 |
Ermitage Rouge LErmite (1.5 L) |
$199 |
|
Sold Out
|
| |
|
| Paul Jaboulet Aine |
2012 |
Hermitage La Chapelle (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$329 |
|
Sold Out
|
| |
|
| | Rhone White |
| M. Chapoutier |
2002 |
Ermitage Blanc LErmite (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork; Bin-Soiled Label; Lightly Torn Label |
$195 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
|
2002 |
Ermitage Blanc LErmite (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork; Heavily Bin-Soiled Label; Water/Wetness-Stained Label |
$195 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
|
2002 |
Ermitage Blanc LErmite (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork; Very Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$195 |
|
Sold Out
|
| |
|
| | Southern France |
| Ch. de Pibarnon |
2013 |
Bandol (1.5 L) ex-Chateau |
$79.99 |
|
Sold Out
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Bandol Rose (1.5 L) ex-Chateau |
$48.99 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
|
| | Champagne |
| Krug |
1995 |
Brut Champagne (1.5 L) |
$725 |
|
Sold Out
|
| |
|
|
1989 |
Collection Champagne (1.5 L) |
$1,200 |
|
Sold Out
|
| |
|
| Veuve Clicquot |
1990 |
La Grande Dame Rose Champagne (3.0 L) |
$1,195 |
|
Sold Out
|
| |
|
| | Other France |
| Jean Foillard |
2013 |
Morgon Cote du Py (1.5 L) |
$79.99 |
|
Sold Out
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| |
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